A new AI metering pilot in Enugu State targets energy theft and revenue losses to attract power sector investors.
The Enugu State Government has teamed up with the United Kingdom to introduce a new technology aimed at solving the power sector’s biggest headache: energy theft.
Through a partnership with the UK Nigeria Infrastructure Advisory Facility (UKNiAF), the state has launched a pilot programme using artificial intelligence to monitor electricity consumption. The goal is simple—to stop revenue leakages and ensure every unit of power is accounted for.
Speaking at the Enugu State Investor Forum, the CEO of the State Electricity Regulatory Commission, Chijioke Okonkwo, revealed that 846 smart meters have already been deployed in the Ugwuaji axis.
According to thesun, He explained that the new system tracks energy flow from transformers directly to households, making it nearly impossible for theft to go unnoticed.
"This system allows us to drastically reduce commercial losses that have held the sector back for years," Okonkwo noted.
The technology provides real-time data, helping officials detect vandalism or illegal connections instantly. Beyond stopping theft, the project is designed to build investor confidence.
With meter prices hovering around N130,000 for single-phase units, the government believes assured revenue collection will encourage private investment.
UKNiAF Team Leader, Frank Edozie, described the initiative as a game-changer for transparency. He added that Enugu was chosen for the pilot because of its proactive implementation of the Electricity Act 2023.
For residents and investors, this signals a shift towards a more reliable electricity market where payments are transparent, and returns on investment are secure.
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